Tuesday, 14 June 2016

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited the American Embassy in central London earlier today to sign a book of condolences for the victims of the Orlando nightclub massacre. A source told the Mail Online: "The Queen immediately issued a statement on Sunday and spoke to the president to offer the nation’s condolences. But with such a disproportionate number of young people affected by the worst mass shooting in US history the Duke and Duchess were very keen to be able to offer the condolences of their own generation too. Prince Harry was unable to join them but he has been speaking at length to people out in Orlando privately because he spent a significant amount of time out there recently for the Invictus Games. All of them have been affected deeply by the stories they have read and heard." Prince William wrote: "With our deepest condolences and with our thoughts and prayers to all those affected."

The couple signed the book in front of a flag given to Hillary Clinton by global LGBT rights organisation, The Kaleidoscope Trust, following the presidential hopeful's first speech on gay rights. After signing the book, the Duke and Duchess spoke to representatives from the US embassy's LGBT network GLIFAA.

'Dozens of embassy workers, all wearing custom-made badges with a combination of the American, British and Pride flags, filled the lobby for the royal visit.'

The Duke and Duchess met staff at the embassy and were shown a model of the new US embassy building which will be based at Nine Elms, London. Whilst chatting with staff, Prince William revealed he will appear in gay lifestyle magazine Attitude. More from The Telegraph:

'Craig Petty, president of LGBT association Glifaa, said the Duke told him he would be appearing in the magazine. I told him what I do and he said he's going to be in Attitude magazine," he added. "I was really nervous about meeting the royal couple, but they are both great at putting you at ease. I think it's great that they have come here today to show their support.

The news has been welcomed by members of the LGBT community as a "great endorsement" for diversity. A spokesman for the LGBT Foundation said: "What it shows is why it's important - because there has not been that many times when the LGBT community has been mentioned or highlighted by the royal family - with it being a younger heir to the throne who is understanding of diverse communities.The fact that he has agreed to be in Attitude and signing books of condolences for the Orlando massacre, shows the importance of reaching out to the LGBT community.'

The tragic news from Orlando has been both shocking and heartbreaking - 49 people lost their lives in the city in the early hours of Sunday morning. It's one of a number of horrific attacks we've seen taking place from Paris to San Bernardino. Several news outlets shared photos of the victims - it's simply horrific so many people lost their lives and so many families are without their loved ones. I know we all join William and Kate in expressing our condolences. For those who wish to leave a message of condolence you can do so here.

Our eagle-eyed reader Lisa identified Kate's new dress as the Tory Burch Sophia Print A-Line Dress. The dress features a leafy monochrome print, short sleeves and a pleat-flared skirt. I thought it very appropriate to choose an American designer and the look was perfect for the nature of the occasion.

Tory Burch

The dress was teamed with Kate's Ralph Lauren jacket. She's worn it several times, most notably the day after the royal wedding.

Kate wore black suede pumps and her Kiki Lauren earrings.

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In the afternoon, Baron and Baroness Carrickfergus (as William and Kate are styled in Northern Ireland), attended the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland's Garden Party at Hillsborough Castle

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Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Theresa Villiers hosted the garden party. She's the lady in yellow beside William.

News of William and Kate's attendance was kept very much under wraps with an embargo until last night due to security reasons.

Interestingly, and to the surprise of many, it is William and Kate's first visit to Northern Ireland since the royal wedding. They memorably visited Belfast in 2011 on Shrove Tuesday and enjoyed flipping pancakes and meeting locals. The Duchess was beaming in a Burberry trench with just weeks to go until the wedding.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has hosted this event annually since 1984. Around 2,500 guests are invited each year. Guests are drawn from a wide cross-section of Northern Irish society, including the voluntary and community sectors, local charities, youth organisations and wider civil society. With the exception of two events, these have always been held at Hillsborough Castle.

Guests were eager to meet the royals.

A royal guest of honour attends each year and in recent years this event has been attended by the Duke of York in 2012, the Earl of Wessex in 2013, HM the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh during their visit to Northern Ireland in 2014, and last year by the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

William and Kate planted a tree.

Hillsborough Castle in County Down is the official residence of the Royal family when they are in Northern Ireland and the home of the Secretary of State since the 1970s. The Georgian mansion was built in the 18th century for the Hill family, the Marquesses of Downshire, and was later remodelled in the 19th and 20th centuries. In 2014, the Prince of Wales held an investiture at Hillsborough Castle, the first one to be held in Northern Ireland since the building became a royal palace.

'The modern royal history of Hillsborough begins in the 1920s, when it became the de facto royal residence in Northern Ireland. Leading members of the Royal family have regularly visited Northern Ireland since 1922, using Hillsborough as their ceremonial and personal base. Significantly, the first meeting between HM the Queen and Mary McAleese, then President of Ireland, occurred at Hillsborough in 2009. In 2011 the Queen led the first state visit to the Republic of Ireland.'

A look at one of the dining rooms.

The interior decor is exquisite.

Hillsborough has welcomed a number of prominent visitors and provided the backdrop for a number of important political talks. It served as a venue for formal and informal stages of the Peace Process, including the signing of the Anglo-Irish Agreement in 1985, decommissioning talks in 1999, and the negotiation of the devolution of policing and justice powers in 2010. Below we see President George W. Bush, Prime Minister Tony Blair and Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern arriving at Hillsborough in 2003 for a summit.

As it's the first time we've had the opportunity to refer to the Cambridges by their Northern Irish title, I did a little research. William and Kate were granted the titles of Baron and Baroness Carrickfergus as a gift by the Queen on their wedding day. Carrickfergus is the oldest town in Country Antrim.

Its name translated to English means 'Rock of Fergus' and it is an older settlement than Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland. The town is the subject of the classic Irish song 'Carrickfergus', a 19th-century translation of an Irish-language song which begins with the lyrics "I wish I was in Carrickfergus".

'A barony, referring to Carrickfergus, had previously existed between 1841 and 1883. In 1841, George Chichester, 3rd Marquess of Donegall, was created by Queen Victoria as Baron Ennishowen and Carrickfergus, of Ennishowen, in the County of Donegal, and Carrickfergus, in the County of Antrim, in the Peerage of the United Kingdom. When he died in 1883, the Barony of Ennishowen and Carrickfergus became extinct; the Marquessate of Donegall was inherited by his brother, Lord Edward Chichester.'

The Duchess brought back a favoured coat she's had in her closet for a decade.

The gold brocade coat by Day Birger Et Mikkelsen is from their Resort 2006 Collection. The Duchess first wore it in May 2006 for the wedding of the Duchess of Cornwall's daughter, Laura Parker Bowles, who married former model Harry Lopes at St Cyriac's Church in Wiltshire. It's been worn several times since, most notably Zara Philipps wedding in 2011 and the Paralympic Opening Ceremony in 2012.

What Kate Wore suggests Kate may have worn her lace Collette Dinnigan dress underneath. The Duchess wore the dress underneath the same coat to Zara Philipps wedding and to a 2007 book launch.

Kate wore the Lock & Co. Morning Rose Perching Hat (with thanks to Me and My Mum Kate). The £645 piece is described: "Swirls of pillarbox-red sinamay circle around a draped centre, inspired by the morning rose flower. The hat sits neatly on the side of the head with the tip of the teardrop shape adding elegant height to the wearer." Below we see it in red.

The hat has been generating quite a bit of debate on social media. What do you think of it?

Fittingly, Kate wore the Shamrock Brooch on her lapel. The three-leaf brooch belongs to the Irish Guards and they determine to whom it be loaned. It has been previously worn by the late Queen Mother and Princess Anne.

It was first worn by Kate for an Irish Guards Armed Forces Day in 2011. Since then we've seen the Duchess wearing the brooch several times whilst presenting shamrock on St Patrick's Day.

It's been such a fun week of royal watching! It began with the SportsAid anniversary dinner last Thursday - during which Kate wowed in the royal blue Roland Mouret Nansen Gown and statement earrings. On Friday, she chose a pretty pale blue Catherine Walker coat-dress for a service at St Paul's. Trooping the Colour saw Kate bring back the McQueen coat-dress from Charlotte's christening. The Patron's Lunch on Sunday was a hit with the Duchess in color-block Roksanda, and Kate brightened up a rainy day in red Catherine Walker and killer Gianvito Rossi Pumps for Garter Day.

Royal reporter Emily Andrews exclusively revealed we'll see William and Kate at Ascot tomorrow "with some very special guests". With thanks to Claudia for alerting us We'll see you then!

143 comments:

Whee! Thank you for the update Charlotte, you do such a great job of giving us the background. I had seen the photos of Kate and William at the U.S. Embassy in London and thought that was a very nice gesture. Probably sent by the R.F. as the royal emissaries? And then they hurried off to N.I. Can't say I liked the outfit although now that I know it was gold it might have looked better in person. I don't like those "perchy" hats unless they have some fluffiness to them so the hat is ugh for me today. Still, she looked very royal and the shamrock brooch was great as were the earrings.

Except for her updo, it was the most boring and washed out look she has put together for a while. It totally fell flat to me. Because of the importance of the event, she could have come up with something new.

That was my first impression too, Anett, until I looked closely. I think, it doesn't photograph well. I decided that it has kind of a 1940'S vibe and I quite like it. I love the whimsicality of the hat and the new earrings are gorgeous. Im officially jealous of her Kiki collection.

It is strange because I had no problem with this coat at previous occassions, I agree it doesn't photograph well, still I think as someone earlier suggested she should add another colour when gshe goes all yellow or red, it would give a bit of more sophistication and a nice change for the same look. I hope you see my point. If she added,green or a touch of red or any other it might have been a different outcome. Also, with the earrings, I love Kiki's design but it is too matchy-matchy.

First of all, great seeing them take the time to sign the condolence book. It's a small gesture that can go a long way. Even better that they stayed and talked to members of the LGBT community! I am so tired and angry and annoyed by all this voilence! Enough is enough!!

Also VERY big that William will feature in Attitude. To some it might seem like just a magazine cover, but considering this is the BRF, him appearing on a gay magazine is HUGE and I am all for it!

As for the afternoon, it's very good to see them be back in NI. And when I see them front and centre at engagements like these at the top of the stairs it becomes such a visual of "this will be them, they will be the top dogs standing in the middle". Quite powerful. Too bad there were no hats and tails for the gents!

I like this coat alot. Such a pretty fabric and I see why she still uses it :) It's a bit bulky in the arm area for my taste but it's a small nitpick. To think it's 10 years old!! And still looks fine! I assume these will be one of those coats that can show up for ages :) The hat and the rest is alright. Not my favourite look but if this is the worst she looks then her standards are pretty darn high :P And I like her low side bun :)

What a week! So many nice engagements and so many great looks! We're spoiled!

I believe the black and white print dress is a Tory Burch abstract floral print dress from last year. I know because I happen to own it and wore it for one memborable happier time - for the final interview for my current job. Tory burch Sophia Color Block Floral Print: https://www.lyst.com/clothing/tory-burch-sophia-color-block-floral-print-dress-tory-navy-gesso-colorblock/

I love the rose hat! Whimsical and very flattering, too. Not a huge fan of the coat, however - doesn't seem to lay properly on her neck. Her tailoring has certainly improved over the last 10 years. Her Kiki M earring collection alone, never mind all her other loot, is enough to induce stabbing fits of jealousy!!

Thank you, Charlotte for this wonderful new post. I want to say thank you to TRH for taking the time out of their schedule to visit the US Embassy and sign the condolence book. I don't live in Orlando, but I was shocked and horrified by the massacre. My sincerest condolences to the families, and friends of the victims. God bless you all!

I like both outfits today. Kate has done a magnificent job, sartorially, for the last week.

I love the coat, but I do not like the hat. I suspect it's the color that is off-putting. Very difficult to wear nude colors. I also don't care for the hats placement on Kate. That aside, she looked great.

It's been quite a week, and I have enjoyed escaping here from the world's sadness. Since Sunday amid horrifying events in Orlando, a heaviness has hung in the air. Charlotte your wonderful posts have been a refuge, I expect for many of us.I am so glad that William and Kate signed the condolence book. They both looked appropriately attired.I really loved Kate's outfit in Ireland. She looked every inch a princess, and her hair was perfect. Looking forward to more surprises.

I wanted to post my comment early so that I could miss the probable debate about the Shamrock brooch and not relive the comments about a certain March engagement. I thought it a very nice gesture and entirely appropriate.

Two great outings today. I do so appreciate that William and Kate stopped by the Embassy to sign the book of condolences. It is a terrible tragedy that occurred and sadly not that different in our culture today. It's unfortunate that this had to happen and senseless violence against innocent people continues. Thoughts and prayers go to the families, friends and survivors for healing and strength.

On to something less heavy, fashion. I was pleasantly surprised to also see that she chose a different outfit then the pin point dot suite she has worn the last couple of times. The dress was very pretty and I like the blazer. I hope we get more information on the dress. It looks very pulled together. At first I thought her hair looked quite dull and flat but understand that it was in preparation for the garden party look later on.

That hat is quite interesting. I don't know that I like it or dislike it. I quite liked the potato chip hat she wore to Zara's wedding with the jacket. I'm glad to see the ensemble again as it is perfect for the event and quite pretty. It proves that Kate's style is timeless if it still looks this good and continues to be in style 10 years after the fact.

Beautiful earrings as well. The pair are really pretty. It must be her 4th pair of Citrine earrings, she must really love that stone.

Thank you Charlotte for the quick post and your coverage of all the events. I love the mash up of looks from the different events this week. Let's hope they keep up a busy program of events now the celebrations for the Queen's birthday have stopped.

My reply to you went missing, Julie. Among other thjngs I did elaborate about the paradox of C&C being excused from a once in a lifetime event- an absence much more momentous than Catherine's not being scheduled for the shamrockceremony-a yearly event. Both to attend a patronage event-the Gloucestershire one a yearly event-next year, same thing. HM mall event-never again.

This comment that supports Kate may go missing, too. I only mentioned it becauseyou and at least one other commenter did. One declaring Catherine's wearingof the brooch a sort of apology for the shamrock "fiasco." I think, in theinterest of fairness, a comment supportive of Kate should be allowed.

This hat is so fun! It makes her coat look more young. The side-chignon is very chic, too. Such a great week of fashion, the only look that wasn't a smashing hit for me was the Roksanda colour blocking dress. Other than that I've been wowed!

I think it's wonderful that the DoC can pull something out of her closet that is 10 years old and look this stylish. I like the new hat paired with this coat. In the comments during Trooping a few mentioned Kate's hair over her ear - and given the hat I didn't notice. I concur with this outing "why is her hair over her ears?"

The new earrings are lovely and I thought she looked very appropriate for the event - wonderful they had sunshine.

Her dress for the condolence signing was nice as well. I'm sure we'll see it sometime down the road. Thanks for sharing everything this week Charlotte. Hopefully we'll hear from you during Royal Ascot! Funny that there's bidding on the color of the Queen's hat.

Your blog is exceptional. You're respectful and solemn when necessary, then you seamlessly transition to cheery and upbeat. You explain events, historical significance, and sartorial selections succinctly, giving the appropriate amount of attention to each.

As a first time poster, but long-time follower of this blog and the Duchess, I have to say she her looks of late have an elevated level of sophistication. She makes dressing look easy and effortless, yet always classy. She has definitely hit it out of the park this past week. While her blue gown and red outfit yesterday certainly steal the show, she has ended this series of appearances with a wonderful muted, elegant look. Love the hat, the earrings, shoes, brooch and while a repeat, the coat! Actually, I think her hats this week have been beautiful and wonderful accents to her "repeats". She has mixed up her shoes and jewelry very well, but her best accent though is always her lovely smile and poised demeanor. While I daresay there will be naysayers and critics (always), she has definitely shown she is every bit a royal and future queen. Way to go Kate!

Thank you for the welcome Rebecca! It's true, I have been a "lurker" for forever! A friend introduced me to this blog and I have been hooked ever since.....my guilty pleasure. It is a very well composed and informative blog. Hats off to Charlotte! Love to read the comments!

Very appropriate outfit this morning. At first glance, I thought it was her Jonathan Saunders bird dress, but it obviously is not. I think this is my favourite wearing of that coat. Her hat is quite regal, but the hat and her updo sort of remind me of cinnamon buns. :) I quite like it. :):):):)

Ah, my favorite coat of Kate's! I loved it with the 'road kill' hat and I love it with the giant rose, though I thought the offside chignon should have been centered. Otherwise, a perfect look. But I wonder whether Kate is advised to wear beige in Northern Ireland, as camouflage for security reasons. That would be sad, but she dressed splendidly.

I very much appreciate the visit to the American Embassy on a busy day. Kate's black and white outfit was lovely, and the Cambridges' condolences must be deeply welcome to the Embassy staff and the LGBT community in London. The horrendous Orlando shooting has of course intensified a continuous political battle in the US, with serious ramifications for public safety. It is an issue that must be resolved if we are to be a civilized society.

Ooooh, beige in northen ireland makes sense. Not for the reason you said (although it might) but I read someone talk about how in Ireland in general, if you wear an Orange tie, green etc people came up and asked "are you of this and this affiliation" etc so he resorted to always wearing pink ties since it had no implications there. Maybe Kates beige look is her version of his pink tie!

I'm sorry but I don't like this hat. Instead, I like very much the up-do series, I think that it shows something new in her attitude towards her role: loose hair is beautiful, youthful, it looks "very Kate" but it's less fitting for a senior royal role. The 90th birthday of HM the Queen is a milestone, clearly (and rater obviously) for the royal family and especially for the second in line.

Im sad to hear that you think long hair is less fitting for a senior royal, Paola. I do love her hair up but I also love it long and loose. I think its wonderful for her to have various options depending on the occasion, and can think of several European senior royals that often wear their hair down. I think as a modern day royal it is only right that Kate breaks some of these stiff preconceived notions. Don't get me going on the skirt length either :-)

I agree with you, Erika, if I just consider the aesthetic side of the matter, but if you think how she has to fight with her loose hair in windy days (i.e. always!), or when she is doing a speech, you must admit that an up-do is much more fitting for a woman whose job requires a look very composed and controlled.

Hi Paola :) I agree that at certain events her hair looks better up but that if she were to wear her hair that way all the time, she would be in danger of morphing into Princess Anne and the Never Changing Hairdo. I think in many cases her former half up/down style kept her hair in place while looking brilliant at the same time. That's just me though.....

It is so lovely to see the Duke and Duchess paying their respects, but even more powerful to see that rather than simply signing the book of condolences, they took time out of their busy day to engage with the LGBT community. As an American, it has been devastating to see that during this election year some people have lost sight of the fact that we need to come together now more than ever and mourn this horrific loss, rather than allowing it to further fracture our communities. I think it is wonderful that William and Kate are cognizant of that.

It was very nice of William and Kate to sign the condolence book. As an American it just hurts my heart to see such tragic things happen to our country. It seems like it was just yesterday when the Charleston South Carolina church massacre happen and St. Bernadino, now this. Even though people are mourning, we just have to remember that hate will not win. We has Americans have gone through this before and we have grew stronger as a country, and America will continue to be a strong country. Now on the outfit, the coat/dress is really cute, but what is on her head. I think the hat would look nice if it didn't have that swirl in the middle. It reminds me of a whip cream swirl lol.

I think Kate looks lovely, but is anyone else tired of her always wearing a coat dress? It just seems so repetitive and many times she looks too "warm" when others are sporting lighter, more summery attire.

I think that Kate shares a trait with me and many others, I am always cold. When others are fanning themselves, I have a jacket on. Even if you don't understand us, please allow us to be comfortable without criticism.

I love the hat. It really is like a rose opening. A sassy conversation piece.

I love the "military" dress and hat that she wore to the St. Patrick's day ceremonies. Hope she wears that combo again.

I would loved to have seen Kate wear a nice pair of simple pearl and diamond earrings today with a simple closely fitting three strand pearl necklace.

I think the earrings are pretty but they are so similar to many, many others that she has. She could have chosen something beautiful but different, like a pair of beautiful pearl and diamond earrings that she could wear for casual and formal occasions. And yes, I am thinking of a pair similar to Diana's.

The moment I saw Kate's hat, I thought it looked like she was wearing a target on the top of her head! I get the sense the swirl on the top of the hat is supposed to be a rosette, but it just looks like a target to me. I would like it so much more without the swirl detail.Although the hat (and coat) aren't my favourite, it's been fun to see Kate every day with new outfits, and repeated outfits given new life. Thanks for all your hard work Charlotte!

I thought the Secretary of State actually outshown Kate today. Never before have I thought that of anyone! I don't say that against Kate - she was lovely, as always. Instead, it is congratulatory toward the Secretary; her dress and hat were lovely and she appears to have a figure as toned as Kate.

It does seem that Kate has taken her overall appearance up a notch with the addition of expensive jewelry and more updos. It must be that they are transitioning into more responsibility within the royal family. I for one enjoy the new look.

I think there is a purposed transition taking place with the increase in their calendars and the very clear photos of a young, strong trio in William, Kate and Harry. The Queen is 90. They must be prepared. Long Live the Queen though.

Yes, I agree she looks better when tan and a tan would have improved this outfit. The one outfit this past week which I think benefitted from her not having a tan was the cream coat dress she wore to Trooping the Colour. That coat and hat were perfection with her natural skin tone.

As an American, it is extremely wonderful to see the royals being so supportive of our country in the wake of this awful tragedy. I'm really glad William and Kate stopped by to sign the book of condolences. I thought Kate's look for the event was appropriate, even though I wasn't wowed by her dress--of course, that wasn't the point, but I find I don't often love her patterned day dresses. They end up looking the same to me, after awhile.

I love the color and pattern of her coat dress and I always appreciate how Kate recycles her wardrobe. It gives non-royals like me hope for my own fashion budget :) The coat dress does seem a bit bulky and warm, though, especially in comparison to how others were dressed. I agree with comments that said a simple dress might have done better for the occasion. Also, as another reader commented, I much prefer the military-style coat dress pictured from 2011. It was more form-fitting and didn't age Kate at all, while still being tasteful and appropriate. I do wish she'd bring some of those sartorial choices back. They always wowed me. As for the hat, I don't mind it so much, although it isn't a favorite. I feel like I should roll my eyes at the presence of the nude pumps, but I have a pair in my closet and know how often I wear them, so I can't blame Kate in the least! I loved Kate's side-chignon. I see she's continuing the string of chic updo's...I wonder if it's becoming a new go-to look for her after so many years of wearing her hair down?

All in all, Kate looked put together, as always. I think it's lovely that TRH visited Ireland again and, of course, the show of support for the US was much appreciated. I'm glad to see William and Kate have been so busy lately! I hope we continue to get to see them frequently.

Hi Charlotte! You've been a busy girl this week! Probably haven't had a chance to catch your breath, but I would like to ask a favor. After all the new jewelry debuts, I was hoping you would update your "Jewelry" section when things slowed down for you. It would be wonderful to see all her lovely earrings in their own sub-link under this category. And of course, now that she's worn three different tiaras, maybe those could have their own, too.

Today is one day when it doesn't matter to me at all what the Duchess wears. I was so, so happy to see that they signed the book of condolence at the US embassy. And so thrilled that William is going to be featured in Attitude magazine. That and doing a diplomatic event in Northern Ireland just makes me proud of them. It shows they are in touch with the public and the current mood of the world. It does make Ascot seem like fluff in comparison. So kudos to them. That is our future King and Queen!

i live in the USA and i want to thank kate and will for caring so much at the tragedy that has fallen upon us and for signing the condolence book, i also want to thank the queen for calling our president. i just wish the killing would stop all over the world we need peace and harmony. i thought kate looked very much like a princess today although i'm still debating over the hat i did love in red, over all she had a great week in fasion.

I definitely admire that she can pull a 10 year old outfit out of her closet and look good. That said, it's time to retire this coat. It doesn't fit her well, in my opinion, and the color doesn't photograph well. (I know her main purpose is not to be photographed). I actually like the hat, and this type of chignon suits her so much better than the one from yesterday. And the earrings are lovely. She really loves that citrine!

I also wanted to add that the speed with which you publish is much appreciated and my first stop for Kate news. I know multiple appearances like this must be difficult to report on, so I for one, am quite grateful! ¡Gracias!

In the spirit of the engagement I will start by saying Go raibh maith agat Charlotte for another detailed post :)

I am delighted to see them in Northern Ireland at another significant event, and good to see them at the Embassy as well. I wonder if they were chosen to visit NI this year to help smooth things over after the Irish Guards fiasco - and yes, regardless what you thought of it, it was a fiasco. The fallout, commentary and poor KP handling turned it into a rare PR disaster for Kate. (Sorry Julie NC had to make a quick mention!)

As far as the fashion, Kate has had some tremendous fashion highs recently, and after every high inevitably comes a low! I for one wish the coat and hat had been buried at the tree planting ;)

To repeat what I've said before, I think it's great to see the uptick in serious and traditional engagements for them. The timing is interesting, perhaps there was an internal deal that the first 5 years would be theirs, and that anniversary would coincide with the Queen's 90th, when they'd have to step forward more?? Total speculation on my part. That or the PR crisis of late led to some tough conversations with William, Charles and the Queen. But whatever led to it, the outcome seems to be trending in a positive direction which is most important.

Summers in Ireland with extended family Anon :) They drummed some Gaelic into me, I'm surprised I still remember it! But "go raibh maith agat" a long winded way to say thank you and "Conas ata tu?" meaning how are you? are still at the tip of my tongue!

Your thoughts on why we have seen W & K more in recent days makes sense. I cannot believe that with Ascot tomorrow we are going to have been able to see Kate 7 days in a row!!! I will definitely have withdrawals when she disappears again for awhile. But maybe you are right, Claudia, and this is just the beginning of a busier schedule.

Its all very interesting, isnt it, Claudia? Pure speculation, of course, but I'm inclined to think this step up in visibility is a recent development. Seems to me PW would not have signed a two year contract if he intended to increase his royal duties significantly after only the first year.

Thanks for the shout out Claudia. No problem with expressing your feelings, just didn't want to devolve into the same old debate again.

I agree with you that the timing of the uptick is very interesting/coincidental/purposeful. I would like to think there was some sort of agreement when they married and then re-evaluated at the time William left the military that would allow them more time together to grow their family before taking on more royal responsibility. I've thought this from her return from maternity leave last year in September that there was a bigger plan in the works that we were just now seeing the beginnings of. I think it is still coming together and wouldn't be at all surprised if next year, when William's contract is up with the air ambulance service that they announce their commitment to become full time royals.

Agree with your second paragraph. I think there was a plan all along, which seems evident now. "PR disasters" and "fiascos" aside, I really don't thinkthe royals peruse fan blogs or the tabloids to decide their course of action.Actually, judging from my 60 year observation of the RF,there are some royalswho might do just the opposite, just to demonstrate no one dictates to them-except the Queen, which is quite evident, and peers and protocol.It takesa massive outpouring of public sentiment to force the Queen's hand. If the Queen followed fan advice and reporter's opinions, she would have come down from her Balmoral entrenchment much sooner, following the 1997 events. That was a long time ago in some eyes, but I don't think she has changed that much.

The PM will only gently suggest-when it comes to RF matters.Matters of State are a horse of a different color, however. There, it is HMwho gently suggests, perhaps with her famous "not amused" face.

As much as I like the first outfit of the day, the second outfit I dislike as much. I wish she would have just kept the black outfit on all day, adding the brooch and fancier earrings. That brocade coat is one of the worst outfits I have seen Kate wear in a long time. It wore out its welcome in 1965.

I've looked all over the Suns website and Emily Andrews hasn't posted anything! I want to know who the special guests are!Im thinking maybe some foreign royalty? It isn't the kids because they are way too young for an event like this

I'm glad they signed the book of condolence and I liked Kate's outfit; she always comes across as very humble and respectful on these occasions. (Not that she doesn't always!) :)

I admit to liking the first wear of this coat the most. The feathery fascinator (and I'm usually not a fan) was a good match for her hair color and a nice contrast to the coat. Fun and appropriate at the same time.

But I do like the rose effect of this new hat; it has a softer look to it than some of her other fascinators. And the earrings...what can I say other than WOW!

Wonderful, informative post, Charlotte. I smiled when I saw the headline, and remembered they are known by a different title in Northern Ireland. When I saw the hat, my first impression was "she's wearing a meringue on her head!" and then I realized it was supposed to be a rose. It is at times like these that I am ever grateful for the kindness and support of our cousins in the United Kingdom. Many thanks for your thoughtfulness in our sorrow

Glad to see that Kate and William went and signed the condolence book. I saw the Queen's release and wondered if they would do the same. I adore her look at the Embassy. The dress is a great fit and pattern, and I think the jacket looks fantastic with it. I think she could take this look and use it on some of her engagements and meetings and look polished and stylish.

In terms of Ireland, I enjoyed that they were at the garden party. The dress, meh. As someone pointed out, it looked stiff and heavy. I am pretty convinced she is probably cold most of the time and so coat dresses work for her, but I felt like this was heavy material. The hat, not a fan of. I much preferred the color and positioning on the mannequin head. I felt like on Kate it was positioned straight in front and far down, the like weight might pull her over. But, more and more, I am finding I prefer her in brighter colors. Some muted subtle ones are great and I don't think she looks bad in any pastels but I feel like the brighter, bolder colors fit her personality better(because I of course know her so well). 😉

I'm so glad William and Catherine offered their condolences in concert with Charles & Camilla and the Queen and Prince Philip. What a great step forward for William to appear in Attitude magazine too! I like this trend toward showing respect and compassion toward the LGBT community, who need it so much--as do all of us, everywhere. Let's be kind to one another, as someone I know says every day . . . Good to see them in Northern Ireland too. One day perhaps we will also see them in the Republic of Ireland.

I LOVE this hat! I don't get excited about hats as a rule, but something about this one just takes my fancy completely. What a pleasure for us fans to see the Duke and Duchess every day this week and to expect to do so again tomorrow.

The Duchess looked lovely as always, especially considering all her public appearances of late and her role as Mum to two young children. However, I dont like this coat, it always looks too big for her, too much material and not tailored and chic like Catherine Walker or McQueen, liked the hat and love the updo. Has anybody identified the earings from Trooping the Colour.

I really like the hat. Her entire look is very elegant. I would love to see her in the red version of it. I am so excited about them attending Ascot tomorrow that I am about to jump out of my skin. I hope she wears something bright and fun.

I just wanted to post the pic that was snapped of W & K hand in hand at the Garden Party. I never get tired of those two holding hands: http://thecambridgees.tumblr.com/post/145919392002/flawlesscatherine-catherine-duchess-of

Hello! I'm a reader from Southern California in the States. I rarely comment but wanted to tell you that I LOVE your site and always look at it for Kate's latest fashion looks. Usually I'll see an article on one of Kate's engagements on the Daily Mail then I come straight to your site to see her clothes and details up close. Thank you for all the work you do to produce this fabulous site! It brings joy to many people.

The shamrock brooch has an emerald at its center, and a small orange stone at the end of the stem. Kate's earrings are orange also. She was in Northern Ireland! Those must be citrines.

I love the constant appearances of William and Catherine. And the critics have largely been silenced. But George and Charlotte must be wondering what has become of their parents! In later summer, they will probably get to have long days of family time.

Connection problems keep eating my comments - but it has been a feast as far as Kate is concerned these past days.Loved the Catherine Walker coat at St. Paul's. I never see why people think Kate dresses too old - she's thirty-four, not twenty-two - an age when most of us were dressing professionally. I thought the suit the height of elegance, although as a quibble, I would have added an inch to length and cream shoes - although I appreciate the nude shoes make for longer-looking legs. I thought the hat picked up perfectly with the lace on the coat.Loved everything about the Trooping - the children beyond precious of course, although George does look a tearaway. Pink and cream are beautiful together and a lovely reuse of the Christening coat. I adore the hat and her updos were perfect with both outfits but this one was truly inspired. I find Camilla's feathers so aging - wondered who the boy in the sailor suit was - he looked too old for such an outfit.The colour block for the street party looked wonderful - worked very well for standing in the car - a great dress - but I can't understand why the zip was changed - don't mind but such an odd switch.I loved the reuse of the red for the Garter ceremony. I'm so pleased to see interesting shoes, I don't even mind the reds don't quite match. I didn't mind the necklace either - I suspect it is quite a sentimental piece - perhaps given by William or by Kate's parents and serves as a default when she doesn't wear something else - such as the aquamarine one. I have a necklace from my late Mum, that I almost always wear.I thought the dress for the visit to the embassy very appropriate and glad they signed the condolence book - such an unbelievable tragedy - my sympathy to all concerned. I've always liked the gold coat - although not surprised it still looks good - it's not like she wears it every day. It does look better with a hat - the colour is a little bland without one - I'm not as crazy about this hat as the previous ones - but at least it is interesting and a bit different. Glad to see her wearing her hair up more - she has lovely hair but I like it best when it looks controlled - not falling in her face. No issues about the brooch - apples and lemons - just hope she wears it for the intended engagement next year. So glad to have caught up, I hope - with a great fashion month.

Catherine may be single-handedly keeping Kiki McDonough in business. I do like her jewelry as well. I adore the rose-shaped hat. And I'm okay with being in the minority & not loving suede shoes in summer.

yes the duchess look lovely in the condolence book signing book in us embassy I just lived 2 years in Canada but my aunts and uncles live there Orlando im thanking the duchess and duke for humble and care I hope people stop killing each other I love the duchess repeat what she wore in zara wedding at garden party in northern Ireland looking forward royal ascot tommorow

Someone mentioned earlier about a difference in emphasis in the engagements all the Royals, "under" the Queen and Prince Phillip are taking in the last 6 months. I agree. I also think William and Catherine have had a wake up call. I really see a difference in Catherine in a recognition of the historical importance of what she is attached to in the last year. I do not know if it is due to her being a Mother a second time, her age, or the possible declining health of the Queen,or all of these things, but there does seem to be a change in her underlying demeanor about the historical importance of what she is a part of, William also, but his a bit more subtle, but you hear it in his very very heartfelt speeches when he references his "Granny". Ali

How interesting the Ascot news! I guess, if not Barack and Michele Obama (but I think America is griefing, it wouldn't be apropiate), then Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, since they are working together on important issues. I don't know if they are friends with George and Amal Clooney, that would also be spectacular, specially Amal. Dioka

William and Kate will be in the 4th carriage today because the Crown Prince and Princess of Denmark will be in the third carriage with Sophie and Edward, following Charles and Camilla, and the Queen and Prince Phillip.

I don't think I've commented on here before. But I have to say that she really is a very beautiful woman and I find I am liking her more and more. I'd love to see more of her playful and ordinary side, but appreciate she probably feels the need to have something that's just for her. But increasingly, she seems to be so appropriately dressed for all events. What really struck me this weekend was at the Sports Aid event where she was the centre of the show, she wore something that made her stand out but at the Service of Thanksgiving she wore something restrained and subtle that allowed her, as much as it's possible, for her to blend in. Her and many of her royal in-laws had appeared to all have the same thought processes - "It's about the queen. We need to look elegant and attractive, but demure and also restrained." Beatrice and Eugenie were the only ones who didn't seem the get the memo. And while I quite liked their outfits (especially the red dress) it felt inappropriate and attention seeking for an occasion that was supposed to be about their grandmother.

At first I thought I liked her dress but the more I look at it the more it looks "old lady", especially next to the other ladies like Princess Mary. (And pairing it with that red jacket at the prior event really didn't work!)

Great coverage on this blog, Charlotte and thanks for the attempt at lessening the superficiality of analyzing Kate's outfit at the signing of a condolence book for a terror act that claimed 49 lives in Orlando. I like the brocade coat, I always have liked these coats on her. They're timeless, stylish and unique. My only gripe is that Kate is dressing so old these days. She's not a 20something but neither is she a 50something. Yes, she has a role to fulfill but when other European royal ladies of a comparable age are dressing in young, fun, stylish clothing, Kate could do the same. Just seems like she's dressing as old as the queen and the Duchess of Cornwall these days.

I have to agree with Elizabeth's comments above. The Duchess' fashion choices over the past few years have become increasingly dowdy...she is a young, fit, beautiful woman, and she should be dressing in young, fun and much more stylish clothing...her hems are too long, her hats are awful...she would look so much better in hats with brims that sit on the head. The Duchess needs a new stylist!

I am so glad the Duchess is not wearing many of the styles I see in the stores! They all seem designed for teenagers. With her face and figure it is impossible for Kate to look old. She looks very beautiful, and she dresses like a royal young woman.

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